A faucet that is leaking is not only annoying but can also result in the loss of a large volume of water. However, you don’t have to put up with the irritating sound of water dripping or the mounting water bills. You can repair the faucet and restore your sanity. This is a relatively easy and inexpensive project to do. 

Common causes of leaky faucets 

Faucets often leak as a result of mineral buildup in the inner parts of the faucet interfering with the seal. Corrosion of parts in the faucet body such as seals or washers can also result in leaking. Another common cause of leaking is worn parts such as the O-rings at the base of the spout assembly. 

How to fix a faucet 

1. Shut the water off

Turn off the water before you begin the repair. Look for the valve for shutting the water off below the sink to turn it off. If there is no shutoff valve at the sink, turn the water off at the mains. 

2. Remove the faucet handles 

The process of removing the handles of your faucet will depend on the type and design of faucet you have. Many standard faucets can be disassembled using a screwdriver. Remove the decorative caps or knobs and unscrew the handle. Lift upward to remove the handle. 

You can spray the handle parts with penetrating oil to help loosen them and make it easier to remove them. Take note of where each part goes as you remove it to aid in reinstalling them later. 

3. Remove stem 

Removing the handle will reveal the cartridge or valve stem. If you have a cartridge faucet, you can pull the cartridge straight out of the faucet body. Removing a valve stem from a compression faucet may require unscrewing the valve from the body. 

If you have a faucet manual for your particular type of faucet, refer to it for directions on removing the cartridge or stem valve. 

4. Inspect parts 

Carefully examine the faucet parts that you have removed. Look for signs of corrosion or wearing out especially around the rubber seals and O-rings. Determine if any parts look like they need to be replaced. You may need to make a run for supplies based on your findings. 

Many manufacturers sell kits to facilitate the replacement of worn parts. You can therefore purchase a kit to tune up the particular faucet model you have. You may be able to purchase kits with replacement seals for cartridge faucets or a replacement kit to replace the entre cartridge. 

5. Clean and reassemble 

Clean the parts of the faucet that you have removed. Pay attention to parts that show signs of mineral buildup. You can use white vinegar to remove the mineral scale. Pour the vinegar on the parts and leave them to soak for about 15 minutes. Use a scrubbing pad to clean the surfaces. Rinse dirt and debris off the parts. 

Carefully reassemble the faucet by reversing the steps you followed when taking the faucet apart. Turn the water back on and observe the faucet for leaks.